In the Bengali version of the Ramayana, as told by Krittibas Ojha, the tale of King Dasharatha and the asura Sambhara highlights the king's exceptional prowess and the extraordinary weaponry at his command. This story not only emphasizes Dasharatha's might but also his vital role in aiding the gods.
The Trouble with Sambhara
An asura (demon) named Sambhara became a significant menace
to the gods. His power grew to such an extent that he managed to defeat Indra,
the king of the Devas, and usurped his throne. Indra, overwhelmed and
desperate, sought assistance from Brahma, the creator god.
Prophecy of Sambhara's Defeat
Brahma revealed that Sambhara's end would come at the hands
of Dasharatha, the mighty king of Ayodhya. With this revelation, Indra
approached Dasharatha, seeking his help to reclaim his kingdom from the asura's
tyranny.
Indra's Plea and Dasharatha's Response
Indra, humbled and anxious, narrated his plight to
Dasharatha and implored him for assistance. Dasharatha, known for his valor and
commitment to righteousness, agreed without hesitation. He assured Indra that
he would take on Sambhara and restore the balance of power.
Preparation for Battle
Once Indra left, Dasharatha began his preparations. He
donned his armor, ensuring it was fastened securely. His chariot, a symbol of
his royal status and strength, was readied along with an array of formidable
weapons. Determined and resolute, Dasharatha set off to the battlefield where
the confrontation with Sambhara awaited.
The Battle Unfolds
The clash between Dasharatha and Sambhara was intense and
fierce. The skies were soon filled with a flurry of arrows, creating a chaotic
and destructive spectacle. Amidst the turmoil, Dasharatha decided to employ a
powerful celestial weapon—the Gandharva Astra. This mystical weapon conjured an
army of Gandharvas (celestial musicians and warriors) who joined Dasharatha in
battle.
Overcoming Sambhara's Army
The newly summoned Gandharvas launched a relentless assault
on Sambhara's forces. The asura's army, overwhelmed by the divine warriors, was
swiftly annihilated. Sambhara, realizing the dire situation, resorted to his
magical abilities and rendered himself invisible to escape the onslaught.
The Shabdavedi Astra
Dasharatha, undeterred by Sambhara's invisibility, invoked
another potent weapon—the Shabdavedi Astra, also known as the Sound Missile.
This weapon had the unique ability to track and target enemies based on the
sound they made. Relying on his sharp senses and the guidance of the
Shabdavedi Astra, Dasharatha pinpointed Sambhara's location.
The End of Sambhara
The Shabdabhedi Astra, guided by the sounds of Sambhara,
struck with precision. The powerful asura, unable to withstand the might of the
weapon, met his end. With Sambhara's death, the turmoil he had caused was
finally resolved.
Dasharatha's victory over Sambhara not only restored Indra's reign but also reaffirmed his own reputation as a formidable warrior and protector of dharma. This tale from the Krittibasi Ramayana showcases the king's strength, his mastery of divine weapons, and his unwavering commitment to the gods, reflecting the timeless values of courage and righteousness.